Growing menace of mobile phone use while riding two-wheelers

Sir,

Over the past several months, I have noticed an alarming increase in the number of two-wheeler riders operating their motorcycles or scooters while holding a mobile phone in one hand and controlling the vehicle with the other. What is even more concerning is that this behaviour has become so common that it is now a routine sight on our city’s roads.

Using a mobile phone while riding significantly reduces a rider’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions. With only one hand on the handlebar, balance, braking and manoeuvrability are all compromised, putting not only the rider at risk but also pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and other law-abiding road users.

I have personally witnessed several close calls where such distracted riders narrowly avoided colliding with other vehicles or pedestrians. Each incident could easily have resulted in a serious injury or even a fatal accident. It is deeply concerning that responsible citizens who obey traffic rules are forced to share the roads with individuals who display such disregard for public safety.

Despite existing traffic regulations, enforcement against this specific violation appears to be inadequate. I believe that stricter penalties, increased surveillance through traffic cameras, and regular enforcement drives are necessary to deter offenders. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of distracted riding would also help educate citizens about the potentially devastating consequences of this behaviour.

Road safety is a shared responsibility. Even a momentary distraction while riding can change lives forever. I hope appropriate action follows before more preventable accidents occur.

—A Concerned Citizen

Mysuru

20.7.2026